Multi-purpose foldable tote bag

ABSTRACT

A foldable bag comprising a flexible laminate panel section and a plurality of custom arranged or rearrangeable interior pockets. The bag is foldable to assume a folded closed configuration, an unfolded flat configuration, or a folded open configuration. In the folded open configuration the bag is adapted to be supported by a support structure, such as a chair back, in a configuration in which a plurality of interior pockets are in a substantially upright orientation and readily accessible. At least one pivotable pocket suitable for use as a work surface may be included, together with at least one open configuration retaining unit. Also disclosed are methods of making a foldable bag of the type described above.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] This invention relates generally to a tote bag and, morespecifically, to a foldable bag which may be folded into a closedconfiguration for transportation of items therein, and which may also befolded into an open configuration for the display, storage, and accessof items therein.

[0003] 2. Background of the Related Art

[0004] A number of tote bags, garment bags, backpacks, etc. have beendisclosed as devices for the transportation of various items. Forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 5,692,604 to Houk discloses a daily wearorganizer comprising an elongated, flexible, flat substratum; aplurality of flexible panels including multiple pockets therein; and astructure for connecting the flexible substratum to a stationary objectso that the flexible substratum can hang vertically therefrom.

[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,680,973 to Vulpitta et al. discloses a portablelap desk and activity station, including front and rear side walls; andtop, bottom, right and left side walls, together defining a maincompartment. The rear side wall is flexible and padded for comfortablyresting on the lap. A rigid panel, retained on the front side wall,includes a writing or work surface.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,223 to Cunningham discloses amulti-compartment business case, comprising an expandable rearcompartment, a middle compartment, a front compartment, a removableportable computer carrying case, and a suit carrier.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,653,337 to Cirigliano discloses a reversible totebag for storing, displaying, accessing and carrying tools. The tote baghas a reversible folding wall which includes a display panel havingindividual compartments for separately storing tools. A reversiblezipper, extending along the peripheral edge of the sides of the bag,allows the sides of the bag to be closed with the display panel eitheron the exterior or on an interior wall.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,439 to O'Hara discloses a portable desk andcooperative file folder holder for use in a seat. The desk includes ahorizontally disposed rectangular base member, which rests on the seatwhen in use and a back member, which is vertically disposed adjacent theback rest of the seat when in use.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,933 to Nunez discloses a convertible articlecarrier, e.g., for carrying and storing various tools, that isessentially a tote bag that is convertible to an apron having a belt,with the belt functioning as a therapeutic device.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,240,330 to Thompson discloses a “bundle” for abeach chair, the bundle being formed from first and second panels of onecontinuous piece of fabric, and third and fourth panels of anothercontinuous piece of fabric. The second and third panels are joined by anelastic strip.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,982 to Pulichino et al. discloses a garmentbag that includes an outer panel, a pair of sides, integral ends, and aninner panel that includes first and second inner panel sections. The bagmay be suspended from a hook provided at one end of the bag, and eitherof first and second inner panel sections may be opened or closedindependently of the other.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 4,960,204 to Young et al. discloses a flexibletravel bag for carrying, storing, and transporting its contents in aclosed, folded position. The bag may be hung in a vertical open positionto enable ready access to the inside of the bag.

[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 4,887,751 to Lehman discloses a compartmentalluggage or travel bag of soft, frameless, sewn or stitched constructionemploying flexible fabric having an inside and an outside surface. Thebag is capable of being fully unfolded to an open condition of displayusage.

[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,804,084 to Markovich discloses a foldable garmentbag which incorporates a retainer assembly to suspend and retain closurepanels in an open upright configuration. The retainer assembly attachesto the bag by a fabric sleeve, and includes a tubular housing, twotelescopic subassemblies, and two attachment subassemblies.

[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 4,738,360 to King et al. discloses a garment bagadapted to fold into a suitcase-like configuration, and capable of beingsuspended in a vertical position by an upper strap and hook.

[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 4,598,803 to Ghiassi discloses a compact carry-onluggage assembly that includes a garment bag, a carry-on bag, and atoilet kit. Snap-hook means are adapted for attaching the toilet kitacross the center of the inner surface of the garment bag.

[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 4,169,550 to Williams discloses an emergencymedical kit constructed to be utilized with a conventional backpacksupport frame.

[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 3,613,843 to Davis discloses a center folded twincompartment travel bag, with each compartment including a soft basepanel secured to a rectangular wire frame. In its open position, the bagmay be hung from an end to serve as a portable, semi-enclosed wardrobe.

[0019] However, there is still a need for a relatively simple, easilycarried bag in which diverse pieces of equipment, supplies, and itemsrequired for a particular activity can be conveniently transported,easily stored until they are needed, and readily accessed when they areneeded.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The instant invention provides a foldable bag for the convenienttransport, storage, display, and access of various items. The bag can beprovided in a wide range of styles and sizes, and adapted or modifiedaccording to the intended use of the bag and the nature of the variousitems to be held by the bag.

[0021] An object, therefore, of the present invention is to provide afoldable bag having a plurality of interior pockets for the convenienttransport, storage, and access of a plurality of items containedtherein.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide a foldablebag adapted for the convenient containment of items routinely used foroffice work.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide an“office-in-a-bag.”

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method ofmaking a foldable bag having a flexible panel section, a bag closureunit, and a plurality of interior pockets.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method ofmaking a foldable bag adapted to be supported in a foldable openconfiguration by a structure, such as a chair back.

[0026] One advantage of the present invention is that it provides a bagwhich is flexible and easily transported via one or more carrying units.

[0027] Another advantage of the present invention is that it may includea plurality of rearrangeable interior pockets.

[0028] Another advantage of the present invention is that it may includeone or more pivotable interior pockets that may be used as a worksurface.

[0029] Another advantage of the present invention is that it may beadapted to be supported in an open folded configuration by a structure,such as a chair back.

[0030] Another advantage of the present invention is that it may includeone or more open configuration retaining units for retaining the bag ina folded open configuration on a structure.

[0031] Another advantage of the present invention is that it can beprovided in a range of different styles and sizes, it can be customizedfor a broad range of applications, and it can be adapted to hold a broadrange of items.

[0032] One feature of the present invention is that it is easilyfoldable between a folded closed configuration, an unfolded flatconfiguration, and a folded open configuration.

[0033] Another feature of the present invention is that it may includeone or more external compartments which are readily accessible while thebag is in the folded closed configuration.

[0034] Another feature of the present invention is that it includes aplurality of interior pockets which are in an upright orientation whenthe bag is in either the folded closed configuration or the folded openconfiguration.

[0035] Another feature of the present invention is that it includes aplurality of interior pockets which are readily accessible while the bagin the folded open configuration.

[0036] Another feature of the present invention is that it may includeat least one pivotable interior pocket adapted to accommodate a rigidslab therein, the pivotable interior pocket/rigid slab combinationsuitable for use as a work surface or writing surface.

[0037] Another feature of the present invention is that is may include aplurality of rearrangeable interior pockets.

[0038] These and other objects, advantages and features of the instantinvention are accomplished by the provision of a bag that is adapted tobe supported in a folded open configuration by a rigid object,comprising: a flexible laminate panel section foldable about a fold lineinto a folded closed configuration and a folded open configuration, thefolded open configuration of said laminate panel section adapted forsupport on a chair back; a pivotable interior pocket pivotably attachedto said laminate panel section and having a rigid slab adapted for useas a work surface; and at least one open configuration retaining unitfor retaining said bag in the open configuration on the chair back.

[0039] These and other objects, advantages and features are accomplishedby the provision of a method of making a foldable bag, comprising:forming a laminate panel section having a lining layer interior face;attaching at least one male attachment unit to the lining layer interiorface; providing at least one rearrangeable interior pocket, each of theat least one rearrangeable interior pockets having at least one femaleattachment unit attached thereto; attaching the at least onerearrangeable interior pocket to the lining layer interior face;attaching a trilateral portion to the laminate panel section; andattaching at least one carrying unit to the laminate panel section.

[0040] These and other objects, advantages and features of the instantinvention will become more apparent from the following description ofembodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Additional advantages, objects, and features of the inventionwill be set forth in part in the description which follows and in partwill become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following or may be learned from practice of theinvention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realizedand attained as particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] The invention will be described in detail with reference to thefollowing drawings in which like reference numerals refer to likeelements wherein:

[0043]FIG. 1A shows a plan view of one side of a foldable bag in thefolded closed configuration, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0044]FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the foldable bag of FIG. 1A;

[0045]FIG. 2A is a plan view of an outer panel in an unfolded flatconfiguration with a corner along the upper edge folded over to show theexterior face of the outer panel, in accordance with the presentinvention;

[0046]FIG. 2B is a plan view of a backing layer in an unfolded flatconfiguration, with a corner along the upper edge folded over to showthe exterior face of the backing layer, in accordance with the presentinvention;

[0047]FIG. 2C is a plan view of a lining layer in an unfolded flatconfiguration, with a corner along the upper edge folded over to showthe exterior face of the lining layer, in accordance with the presentinvention;

[0048]FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the interior of a bag, in anunfolded flat configuration, showing a trilaminate panel section andwith interior pockets omitted for the sake of clarity, according to oneembodiment of the invention;

[0049]FIG. 3B is a plan view of a bag in an unfolded flat configuration,showing a pair of interior pocket sections and a plurality of interiorpockets, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0050]FIG. 3C is a plan view of the interior of a bag in an unfoldedflat configuration, showing a plurality of interior pocket maleattachment units, and with interior pockets omitted for the sake ofclarity, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0051]FIG. 3D is a plan view of the bag shown in FIG. 3C, showing aplurality of rearrangeable interior pockets attached to the interiorpocket male attachment units, in accordance with the present invention;

[0052]FIG. 3E is a frontal plan view of the outer side of arearrangeable interior pocket showing an interior pocket femaleattachment unit attached to the outer side of the pocket, in accordancewith the present invention;

[0053]FIG. 3F is a frontal plan view of the inner side of therearrangeable interior pocket of FIG. 3E showing an interior pocketclosing unit, in accordance with the present invention;

[0054]FIG. 3G is a side view of the rearrangeable interior pocket ofFIGS. 3E and 3F attached to the interior of the bag, and showing oneembodiment of the interior pocket closing unit, in accordance with thepresent invention;

[0055]FIG. 3H is a side view of the rearrangeable interior pocket ofFIGS. 3E and 3F showing another embodiment of the interior pocketclosing unit, in accordance with the present invention;

[0056]FIG. 4A is a plan view of the exterior of a bag in an unfoldedflat configuration, with external compartments omitted for the sake ofclarity, in accordance with the present invention;

[0057]FIG. 4B is a plan view of the exterior bag of a bag in an unfoldedflat configuration, showing a plurality of external compartments andholder bands, in accordance with the present invention;

[0058]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a panel section in the foldedclosed configuration;

[0059]FIG. 5B is a plan view of a trilateral portion in a linearconfiguration and shown in isolation (unattached to a foldable bag);

[0060]FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a foldable bag in the foldedclosed configuration showing the trilateral portion shown in FIG. 5Battached to the panel section, according to one embodiment of theinvention;

[0061]FIG. 5D is a perspective view of a foldable bag that includes ashoulder strap for conveniently transporting the bag, according to oneembodiment of the invention;

[0062]FIG. 5E shows a foldable bag with a shoulder strap that includesshoulder strap tabs, according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0063]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a bag in the folded openconfiguration showing a plurality of interior pockets, in accordancewith the present invention;

[0064]FIG. 7A is a side plan view of a foldable bag in the folded openconfiguration supported on the back of a chair, in accordance with thepresent invention;

[0065]FIG. 7B is a side plan view of a foldable bag in the folded openconfiguration supported on the back of a chair, and showing a pivotablepocket pivoted away from the chair back, in accordance with the presentinvention;

[0066]FIG. 7C is a side plan view of a foldable bag in the folded openconfiguration showing a pair of unfastened retaining straps, inaccordance with the present invention;

[0067]FIG. 7D shows the foldable bag of FIG. 7C with the retainingstraps fastened to retain the bag against a chair back, in accordancewith the present invention;

[0068]FIG. 8A is a front plan view of a foldable bag in the folded openconfiguration showing a pivotable interior pocket, in accordance withthe present invention;

[0069]FIG. 8B is a side plan view of a portion of a foldable bag in thefolded open configuration showing a pivotable interior pocket in anupright orientation, in accordance with the present invention;

[0070]FIG. 8C shows the foldable bag of FIG. 8B with the pivotablepocket in an angled orientation with respect to the bag, in accordancewith the present invention;

[0071]FIGS. 8D and 8E are a side plan view and a face plan view,respectively, of a rigid slab adapted to be inserted in a pivotableinterior pocket, in accordance with the present invention;

[0072]FIGS. 9A and 9B show how a user may interact with the foldable bagof the present invention while the bag is in a folded open configurationand supported by a chair back, in accordance with the present invention;

[0073]FIG. 10 summarizes steps involved in a method of making a foldablebag, according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0074]FIG. 11 summarizes steps involved in a method of making a foldablebag, according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

[0075]FIG. 12 summarizes steps involved in a method of making a foldablebag, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0076] The foldable bag of the present invention is versatile, and maybe adapted for a variety of applications. For example, the foldable bagmay be adapted for the transportation, storage, and display of officesupplies and items needed by business people, students, etc. who havework to be performed “in the field” or away from an office oroffice-like environment. The foldable bag of the present invention mayalso be adapted so that it may be opened to a folded open configurationand placed over a support such as a chair back when the bag is in thefolded open configuration. In this, configuration, the chair backprovides support for the foldable bag, and the foldable bag holds anddisplays various items of office equipment in a readily accessiblemanner.

[0077] The foldable bag of the present invention may also be adapted foraccommodating various items other than office supplies. Thus, thefoldable bag may have the features generally outlined above, and may beadapted to accommodate, for example, items required for the amusement ofa child, e.g., games and toys, or items needed by models andentertainment artists, e.g., make-up, costumes, etc.

[0078] A foldable bag according to the instant invention is adapted sothat it may adopt three different configurations: a folded closedconfiguration, an unfolded substantially flat configuration, and afolded open configuration. For convenience, these configurations arehereinafter referred to as 11, 11′, and 11″, respectively.

[0079] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1A shows a plan view of an outerpanel 12 of a foldable bag 10 on one side of a fold line designated asX-Y, with the bag in the folded closed configuration. The fold line X-Yis centrally or substantially centrally located such that, in the foldedclosed configuration, bag 10 is substantially bilaterally symmetrical.Outer panel 12 preferably comprises a durable flexible material, as willbe described herein below. A first carrying unit 60 may be attached toouter panel 12, preferably adjacent to each end of the fold line X-Y, tofacilitate transportation of the bag by a person. According to acurrently preferred embodiment of the invention, carrying unit 60preferably comprises a shoulder strap 62 or 62′ (Shown in FIGS. 5D and5E).

[0080]FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a foldable bag 10 in the foldedclosed configuration, according to one embodiment of the invention, andshows outer panel 12 folded about the fold line X-Y. Bag 10 is retainedin the folded closed configuration in part by its own resiliency, and inpart by closure unit 30, which extends along outer panel left edge 12 a,outer panel upper and lower edges 12 c/12 d, and outer panel right edge12 b.

[0081] Closure unit 30 is attached to outer panel 12 via a trilateralportion 26 (Shown FIGS. 5B and 5C. According to a currently preferredembodiment of the invention, closure unit 30 preferably comprises a zipfastener or zipper having a zipper tab 31. It is within the scope of theinvention as disclosed herein, however, for closure unit 30 to encompassother fastening or closing means, such as hook and loop fasteners, e.g.,Velcro™, snap fasteners, etc.

[0082] Bag 10 may include a second carrying unit 60′. The secondcarrying unit 60′ is preferably attached to outer panel 12 adjacent toeach end of the fold line X-Y, in a way similarly to the attachment offirst carrying unit 60. Second carrying unit 60′ may be of the samelength as, or may be shorter than, first carrying unit 60. The secondcarrying unit 60′ is preferably to be held in the hand of an individualfor carrying bag 10. However, when second carrying unit 60′ issubstantially the same length as the first carrying unit 60, the bag maybe carried on the back of an individual in a backpack-like manner.

[0083] Foldable bag 10 may be provided in a broad range of sizes,according to the size of the items the foldable bag 10 is designed tocarry, e.g., office supplies, artist's supplies, athletic equipment,make-up, etc., according to the characteristics of the individual who isto use bag 10, e.g., an adult male, female adolescent, child, etc., oraccording to other factors. The bag 10, in the folded closedconfiguration, preferably has a length in the range of from less thanone foot to a few feet, and a width in the range of from several inchesto a few feet. FIG. 2A is a plan view of an outer panel 12 of a foldablebag 10, with outer panel 12 in an unfolded flat configuration and outerpanel interior face 14 of outer panel 12 shown uppermost. One corner ofouter panel 12 is turned over to reveal outer panel exterior face 13.Outer panel 12 includes outer panel left and right edges 12 a and 12 b,respectively, as well as outer panel upper and lower edges 12 c and 12d, respectively. In the folded closed configuration, outer panel upperand lower edges 12 c, 12 d are juxtaposed along the basal portion of bag10.

[0084] The shape of outer panel 12 is preferably substantiallyrectangular. The dimensions of outer panel 12 may be varied according tothe uses and user of bag 10, as discussed above. According to acurrently preferred embodiment of bag 10, outer panel 12 has dimensionsof approximately 40 inches by approximately 17.5 inches. However, theseapproximate dimensions are not to be construed as limiting the inventionin any way, and it is to be understood that other dimensions for outerpanel 12 lie entirely within the scope of the invention as hereindisclosed.

[0085] Outer panel 12 preferably comprises a flexible, strong anddurable material, including various non-woven or woven, natural orsynthetic fabrics, e.g., various types of commercial grade nylon,cotton, cotton/polyester blends, plastics, denim, leather, velvet,velour, upholstery-grade fabrics, brocades, etc. The material comprisingouter panel 12 may be provided in a range of colors, prints, weights,and textures. According to one embodiment, outer panel 12 may comprisematerial which is water proof, water resistant, and/or stain resistant,or may comprise material which has been treated to promote waterresistant and/or stain resistant properties to outer panel 12.

[0086]FIG. 2B is a plan view of an outer panel backing layer 16 of afoldable bag 10, with backing layer 16 in an unfolded flatconfiguration, and backing layer interior face 18 shown uppermost. Onecorner of backing layer 16 is turned over to reveal backing layerexterior face 17. Backing layer 16 includes backing layer left and rightedges 16 a and 16 b, respectively, as well as backing layer upper andlower edges 16 c and 16 d, respectively.

[0087] The shape and dimensions of backing layer 16 are the same orsubstantially the same as those of outer panel 12. Backing layer 16preferably comprises a flexible, strong and somewhat resilient material,including various non-woven or woven, natural or synthetic fabrics, andmay be provided in a range of colors, weights, and textures.

[0088]FIG. 2C is a plan view of an outer panel bag lining layer 20 of afoldable bag 10, with lining layer 20 in an unfolded flat configurationand lining layer interior face 22 shown uppermost. One corner of lininglayer 20 is turned over to reveal lining layer exterior face 21. Lininglayer 20 includes lining layer left and right edges 20 a and 20 b,respectively, as well as lining layer upper and lower edges 20 c and 20d, respectively.

[0089] The shape and dimensions of lining layer 20 are the same orsubstantially the same as those of outer panel 12. Lining layer 20preferably comprises a flexible, strong and fairly smooth material,including various non-woven or woven, natural or synthetic fabrics,e.g., as various commercial grade nylon fabrics, and may be provided ina range of colors, weights and textures.

[0090] During construction of bag 10, outer panel 12, backing layer 16and lining layer 20 are joined such that backing layer exterior face 17is disposed on outer panel interior face 14, and lining layer exteriorface 21 is disposed on backing layer interior face 18. Outer panel 12,backing layer 16, and lining layer 20 are joined at their respectiveleft, right, upper and lower edges to form a substantially rectangularlaminate panel section 24 (Shown in FIG. 3A).

[0091]FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a foldable bag 10 in an unfoldedflat configuration, according to one embodiment of the invention, withlining interior face 22, i.e., the face corresponding to the interior ofthe bag, uppermost. Bag 10 includes outer panel 12, backing layer 16,and lining layer 20, which are preferably superimposed on one another toprovide laminate panel section 24.

[0092] Outer panel 12, backing layer 16 and lining layer 20 may bejoined at their respective edges 12 a-12 d, 16 a-16 d, and 20 a-20 d byvarious types of stitching, by adhesives, by fasteners such as Velcro™,or by other means well known in the art. Laminate panel section 24includes laminate panel section left and right edges 24 a and 24 b, aswell as laminate panel section upper and lower edges 24 c and 24 d.

[0093] According to various embodiments of the invention, one or both ofbacking layer 16 and lining layer 20 may be omitted, depending on theintended use of bag 10 and the nature of the material of outer panel 12.Interior pockets 41 (Shown in FIG. 3B) are omitted from FIG. 3A for thesake of clarity.

[0094]FIG. 3B is a plan view of a bag 10 in an unfolded flatconfiguration, including first and second interior pocket sections 40 aand 40 b, and a plurality of interior pockets 41, according to oneembodiment of the invention. First and second interior pocket sections40 a and 40 b are disposed against lining interior face 22, and each ofthe plurality of interior pockets 41 are held in an upright orientationwhen bag 10 is in either the folded closed configuration 11 or thefolded open configuration 11″.

[0095] Interior pockets 41, and first and second interior pocketsections 40 a and 40 b may be constructed from the same material used inthe construction of lining layer 20 or outer panel 12. Alternatively,they may be constructed from a broad range of other materials, includingtransparent plastic, mesh (net-like) material, various fabrics, or anycombination of plastic, mesh and fabric, e.g., fabric with plastic ormesh windows therein. In addition, interior pockets 41 may be reinforcedwith one or more additional layers of either the same or differentmaterial, and may be padded, layered or pleated for increased durabilityand/or storage capacity. Interior pockets 41, as well as interiorpockets 41′ shown FIG. 3D, may be varied in size, shape and design inorder to accommodate items having a range of sizes and/or shapes.

[0096] Furthermore, FIG. 3B shows an example of how a layered pocketstructure 46 may be formed by layering two or more interior pockets(pockets 41 a, 41 b and 41 c in FIG. 3B). In the example shown in FIG.3B, pocket 41 b overlaps pocket 41 a, and pocket 41 c overlaps pocket 41b.

[0097] As indicated above, one or more of the layered pockets may beconstructed from a transparent material so that the contents of thepocket may be viewed without opening the pocket. The number of layeredpocket structures 46, and the number, size, shape and design of theindividual pockets that make up the layered pocket structure 46 may bevaried and still fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0098] According to the embodiment of FIG. 3B, interior pockets 41 areprearranged on first and second interior pocket sections 40 a and 40 bprior to attachment of first and second interior pocket sections 40 aand 40 b to laminate panel section 24. The size, number, and arrangementof interior pockets 41 on first and/or second interior pocket sections40 a and 40 b may be prearranged or customized according to thepreferences of the user of the bag 10 or according to the intended useof the bag 10.

[0099] Interior pockets 41 may each include an interior pocket closingunit 44 (Shown in FIG. 3F) for closing or sealing pockets 41, and forsecuring items to be carried within pockets 41. Interior pocket closingunits 44 may be hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, zippers, etc.According to a currently preferred embodiment of the invention, interiorpocket closing units 44 may include a fastening mechanism, such asstrips of Velcro™.

[0100] First and second interior pocket sections 40 a and 40 b may beattached to laminate panel section left, right, upper and lower edges 24a-24 d, respectively, by various types of stitching, or by otherappropriate means known in the art. First and second interior pocketsections 40 a and 40 b are preferably disposed on laminate panel section24 such that a gap or space, designated “U-V” in FIG. 3B, exists aboutfold line X-Y. Space U-V allows for the convenient attachment oftrilateral portion 26 (Shown in FIG. 5B) to laminate panel section 24.

[0101]FIGS. 3C and 3D are plan views of a foldable bag 10 according toanother embodiment of the invention, with bag 10 in the unfolded flatconfiguration and including laminate panel section 24. The embodimentshown in FIGS. 3C and 3D further includes at least one, and preferably aplurality, of interior pocket male attachment units 42 which, togetherwith interior pocket female attachment units 43 (Shown in FIG. 3E) forma complementary fastening mechanism for the rearrangeable attachment ofrearrangeable interior pockets 41′.

[0102] For example, male attachment units 42 may include the hookportion or the loop portion of a hook and loop fastening mechanism,while female attachment units 43 may include the loop portion or thehook portion of a hook and loop fastening mechanism. Rearrangeableinterior pockets 41′ are omitted from FIG. 3C for the sake of clarity.Male attachment units 42 may be attached to lining interior face 22 by,for example, various forms of stitching, adhesives, etc., and aredepicted in FIG. 3C as elongated strips oriented substantially parallelto fold line X-Y. However, shapes, sizes, numbers, arrangements, andfeatures of male attachment units 42 other than those represented inFIG. 3C may be used and lie within the scope of the instant invention.According to one embodiment of the invention, male attachment units 42may themselves be rearrangeable so as to accommodate variousarrangements of interior pockets 41′ within bag 10. According to anotherembodiment of the present invention, the male attachment units 42 maycover substantially all of the lining interior face 22 so that theinterior pocket 41′ may be positioned anywhere on the lining interiorface 22.

[0103]FIG. 3D shows a plurality of rearrangeable interior pockets 41′attached to interior pocket male attachment units 42 via interior pocketfemale attachment units 43 (Shown in FIG. 3E). Interior pockets 41′ arepreferably attached so that they assume an upright orientation when bag10 assumes either the folded closed configuration 11 or the folded openconfiguration 11″.

[0104] The characteristics of the materials for the rearrangeableinterior pockets 41′, and the construction of rearrangeable interiorpockets 41′, is generally as described above in connection with theinterior pockets 41 shown in FIG. 3B. Interior pockets 41′ may eachinclude an interior pocket closing unit 44 (Shown in FIG. 3F) forclosing or sealing pockets 41′, and for securing items to be carriedwithin pockets 41′. Interior pocket closing units 44 may be hook andloop fasteners, snap fasteners, zippers, etc. According to a currentlypreferred embodiment of the invention, interior pocket closing units 44may include a fastening mechanism, such as strips of Velcro™.

[0105]FIG. 3E is a frontal plan view of a rearrangeable interior pocket41′ with the interior pocket outer side 41′b foremost, and includinginterior pocket female attachment unit 43 attached to interior pocketouter side 41′b.

[0106]FIG. 3F is a frontal plan view of a rearrangeable interior pocket41′ with interior pocket inner side 41′a foremost. Interior pocket 41′may include interior pocket closing unit 44 inside the pocket 41′.

[0107]FIG. 3G is a side view of a rearrangeable interior pocket 41′,including interior pocket closing unit 44, with interior pocket 41′attached to lining interior face 22 of laminate panel section 24 viamale and female attachment units 43 and 44.

[0108]FIG. 3G is a side view of a rearrangeable interior pocket 41′,according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein pocket 41′includes a closure flap 45, and wherein closing unit 44 is locatedbetween the inner part of flap 45 and interior pocket inner side 41′a.

[0109]FIGS. 4A and 4B are plan views of a foldable bag 10 in theunfolded flat configuration 11′ showing outer panel exterior face 13 oflaminate panel section 24. FIG. 4A shows the points of attachment ofcarrying unit 60 in relation to fold line X-Y. External compartments 32and holder bands 36 (shown in FIG. 4B) are omitted from FIG. 4A for thesake of clarity.

[0110]FIG. 4B shows the plurality of external compartments 32 and theplurality of holder bands 36, according to one embodiment of theinvention. External compartments 32 may serve as pockets for relativelylarge items, which may be readily accessed from compartments 32 whilebag 10 is in the folded closed configuration 11. According to acurrently preferred embodiment, external compartments 32 are constructedfrom flexible and durable material, which may be the same as or similarto the material used for outer panel 12. External compartments 32 mayinclude an external compartment closing unit 35, such as a hook and loopfastener mechanism.

[0111] Holder bands 36 may be spaced apart a distance ranging from a fewinches to a foot or more, and are preferably secured to outer panel 12at various points via holding units 37. The holder bands 36 may be usedto hold various items, e.g., an umbrella, a rolled-up newspaper, orother commonly carried articles. Holding units 37 may include varioustypes of stitching, rivets, snap fasteners, or other securing mechanismswell known in the art.

[0112] The external compartments 32 and the holder bands 36 arepreferably attached to the outer panel 12 before the outer panel 12, thebacking layer 16 and the lining layer 20 are joined to form the laminatepanel section 24.

[0113]FIG. 5A shows a laminate panel section 24 folded along a fold linerepresented by the line X′-Y′ in a folded closed configuration,corresponding to configuration 11 of bag 10. For the purposes ofclarity, laminate panel section 24 is depicted here as a single layer.Laminate panel section 24 includes laminate panel left, right, upper,and lower edges 24 a-24 d, respectively, as discussed above.

[0114]FIG. 5B shows trilateral portion 26 in isolation (unattached tobag 10) and extended in a substantially straight line. In a currentlypreferred embodiment, trilateral portion 26 includes closure unit 30having a closure unit tab 31, as well as first and second joiningsections 27 and 28 attached to and disposed on each side of closure unit30. First and second joining sections 27 and 28 are preferably formedfrom a flexible and durable woven or non-woven fabric, such as thefabric used for outer panel 12. Closure unit 30 is preferably a zipperor zip fastener.

[0115]FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a foldable bag 10 in the foldedclosed configuration 11, and including trilateral portion 26 attached tolaminate panel 24 and extending along outer panel edges 24 a, 24 c/24 d,and 24 b. Closure unit 30 is in a fully closed position with closureunit tab 31 located adjacent to fold line X-Y at laminate panel leftedge 24 a. The width of trilateral portion 26 can be varied to providecorrespondingly deeper or shallower versions of bag 10, as desired.

[0116]FIG. 5D shows a foldable bag 10 including a carrying strap,preferably a shoulder strap 62, having a length adapted for placementover the shoulder of a person, for the purpose of convenientlytransporting bag 10, according to one embodiment of the invention.Shoulder strap 62 may be attached to laminate panel 24 adjacent to foldline X-Y by various forms of stitching, or by other attachmentmechanisms well known in the art. Shoulder strap 62 may be formed from asturdy, flexible material, such as the material used for outer panel 12,or from webbing material. Optionally, a second carrying unit 60′ (shownin FIG. 1B) may be attached to laminate panel 24 instead of, or inaddition to, shoulder strap 62.

[0117]FIG. 5E shows a foldable bag 10 including a shoulder strap 62′,first and second shoulder strap tabs 64 a and 64 b, and first and secondshoulder strap attachment units 66 a and 66 b, according to anotherembodiment of the invention. First and second shoulder strap tabs 64 aand 64 b, as well as shoulder strap 62′, may be formed from a sturdy andflexible material, such as webbing material or the material used forouter panel 12. First and second shoulder strap tabs 64 a and 64 b maybe attached to laminate panel 24 in ways similar to those described forattachment of shoulder strap 62 in connection with FIG. 5D. In oneembodiment, the first and second shoulder strap attachment units 66 aand 66 b are adapted to allow the length of the shoulder strap 62′ to beadjusted. Such adjustable first and second shoulder strap attachmentunits 66 a and 66 b may, for example, be rigid rings, e.g., stainlesssteel or plated metal rings, wooden rings, plastic rings, etc., or mayinclude spring-loaded rings, hooks, etc.

[0118]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a foldable bag 10 in the foldedopen configuration 11″, including closure unit 30 in the fully open orunzipped state, first and second joining sections 27 and 28, and apivotable interior pocket 50. The pivotable interior pocket 50 will bedescribed fully herein below.

[0119] Bag 10 further includes a plurality of interior pockets 41/41′,which may be either fixedly attached on interior pocket sections 40 aand 40 b, i.e., such as interior pockets 41 (shown in FIG. 3B) or,according to an alternative embodiment, arranged on lining interior face22 using male and female attachment units 42 and 43, i.e., rearrangeablepockets 41′ (shown in FIGS. 3C-3G).

[0120]FIG. 7A is a side plan view of a foldable bag 10 in the foldedopen configuration 11″ being supported on the back 75 of a chair 80,according to the invention. The fold line is in an apical position, orat an approximately 12 o'clock position. Each of the plurality ofinterior pockets 41/41′ are in an upright position, thereby making itemscontained therein conveniently accessible. Although the foldable bag 10is shown being supported in the folded open configuration on the back 75of chair 80, it should be appreciated that the foldable bag 10 may besupported in the folded open configuration by other types of supportingstructures.

[0121] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one openconfiguration retaining unit 70 may be included for retaining laminatepanel section 24 in the folded open configuration, and for securing bag10 in the folded open configuration to a supporting structure, such asthe back 75 of chair 80. According to a currently preferred embodiment,retaining unit 70 may include at least one pair of retaining straps orside straps, e.g., first and second side straps 70 a and 70 b,respectively, as well as a side strap lock unit 71 (shown in FIG. 7C). Apivotable interior pocket 50 is shown in the vertical or uprightconfiguration. Although only one pivotable pocket 50 is shown, it is tobe understood that a bag 10 according to the invention may include twoor more of such pivotable pockets 50.

[0122]FIG. 7B is a side plan view of a foldable bag 10 in the foldedopen configuration 11″ supported on the back 75 of a chair 80. Openconfiguration retaining unit 70 is fastened to secure bag 10 to thechair 80. Pivotable pocket 50 is pivoted from the upright configuration(i.e., away from bag 10 and the back 75 of the chair 80). A rigid slab56 (shown in FIGS. 8B-8E) is provided inside pivotable pocket 50,thereby providing a work surface for writing, sketching, or other tasks.

[0123]FIG. 7C shows a foldable bag 10 in the folded open configuration11″ as seen from the side. First and second side straps 70 a and 70 bmay be attached to laminate panel right edge 24 b, preferably at pointsequidistant from laminate panel edges 24 c and 24 d. In other words, thedistance from the point of attachment of first side strap 70 a fromlaminate panel upper edge 24 c is preferably the same or substantiallythe same as the distance from the point of attachment of second sidestrap 70 b from laminate panel lower edge 24 d. Each of first and secondside straps 70 a and 70 b include a side strap lock unit 71, which isshown in the unfastened or unlocked position.

[0124]FIG. 7D shows foldable bag 10 in the folded open configuration 11″with first and second side straps 70 a and 10 b fastened to each othervia side strap lock unit 71. This allows bag 10 to be convenientlyretained against a supporting object such as a chair back, in the foldedopen configuration.

[0125]FIG. 8A shows a foldable bag 10 in the folded open configuration11′ showing pivotable pocket 50, according to one embodiment of theinvention. Pivotable pocket 50 may be pivotally attached to laminatepanel 24 by, for example, various forms of stitching, by complementarymale and female attachment units 42 and 43, respectively, or by otherattachment mechanisms. Pivotable pocket 50 includes a rigid slab 56 and,optionally, a mouth portion 57 by which rigid slab 56 may be insertedwithin and removed from pocket 50 (shown in FIGS. 8B-8E). Pivotablepocket 50 may occupy either an upright orientation, i.e., pocket 50 issubstantially vertical, or an angled orientation, i.e., pocket 50 ispivoted away from laminate panel 24 (shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C).

[0126] Pivotable pocket 50 may be locked in the angled orientation via astay unit. According to one embodiment, the stay unit comprises firstand second stays 53 a and 53 b, first and second stay mounting units 54a and 54 b for pivotably mounting stays 53 a and 53 b to pocket 50, andfirst and second stay receptacle units 55 a and 55 b (shown in FIGS. 8Band 8C) for receiving or holding first and second stays 53 a and 53 b.According to a currently preferred embodiment, first and second staymounting units 54 a and 54 b pivotably mount stays 53 a and 53 b torigid slab 56 within pocket 50.

[0127]FIG. 8B shows a foldable bag 10 (shown truncated) in the foldedopen configuration 11″, with pivotable pocket 50 in the uprightorientation, stay 53 b suspended from mounting unit 54 b, and stayreceptacle 55 b unoccupied. FIG. 8C shows pivotable pocket 50 in theangled orientation, with stay 53 b pivoted at mounting unit 54 b toassume a substantially horizontal orientation, and retained within stayreceptacle 55 b, thereby holding pivotable pocket 50 in the angledorientation.

[0128]FIGS. 8D and 8E show a rigid slab 56 that may be inserted inpivotable interior pocket 50. Slab 56 is preferably planar orsubstantially planar, has a thickness preferably ranging fromapproximately 1 mm to approximately 15 mm, and may be formed fromvarious types of wood, plastic, metal, etc. Slab 56 preferably hasoverall dimensions and an outline shape adapted to fit, or to be heldsnugly by, pivotable pocket 50. For example, slab 56 may besubstantially square, rectangular, oval, etc. in outline. A preferredrange for the length of slab 56 is from approximately 1 inch toapproximately 20 inches. A preferred range for the breadth of slab 56 isfrom approximately 1 inch to approximately 14 inches.

[0129]FIG. 9A illustrates an individual in relation to a foldable bag10, with bag 10 in the folded open configuration 11′ and supported by achair back. Thus, an individual may sit on a separate chair behind thechair on which bag 10 is supported, and use pivotable pocket 50 as awork surface, and/or conveniently access items located within interiorpockets 41/41′ (shown in FIGS. 3B, 3D).

[0130]FIG. 9B illustrates an individual in relation to a foldable bag 10in a folded open configuration and supported by a chair back, whereinthe individual is seated on the chair that is supporting bag 10. In thisposition, the individual may use pivotable pocket 50 as a work surface,and/or conveniently access items located within interior pockets 41/41′,in a similar fashion to that described in reference to FIG. 9A above.

[0131]FIG. 10 summarizes steps involved in a method of making a foldablebag, according to one embodiment of the invention, wherein step 102includes providing a panel section. The panel section provided in step102 may be trilaminate, including an outer panel, a backing layer, and alining layer, such as the laminate panel section 24 described above inconnection with FIG. 3A. Alternatively, the panel section provided instep 102 may include either two layers, e.g., a lining layer or abacking layer disposed on an outer panel, or the panel section may beconstructed from a single layer, such as an outer panel having anexterior and an interior surface. The panel section provided in step 102may include one or more external compartments and one or more holderunits attached to the exterior thereof.

[0132] Step 104 includes attaching at least one interior pocket to thepanel section provided in step 102. The at least one interior pocketreferred to in step 104 may include interior pockets 41 or 41′, orpivotable interior pocket 50.

[0133] Step 106 includes attaching a trilateral portion to the edges ofthe panel section provided in step 102. Subsequent to step 106, theedges where the trilateral portion was attached to the panel section maybe “finished” by the attachment of additional materials, such as sewinga strip of bias binding to the edges. Furthermore, subsequent to step106, a first and/or a second carrying unit may be attached to the panelsection provided in step 102.

[0134]FIG. 11 summarizes steps involved in a method of making a foldablebag, according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein step 202includes providing an outer panel. The outer panel provided in step 202is preferably a substantially rectangular bypass panel made of flexibleand durable woven or non-woven synthetic or natural fabric material,such as commercial grade nylon, plastic, denim, various polyester/cottonblends, etc.

[0135] The outer panel provided in step 202 may be modified by theattachment of one or more external compartments or external pockets.Such external compartments may be provided in a range of sizes andshapes, and may be constructed from the same material or substantiallythe same types of materials described above as being suitable forconstruction of the outer panel. The outer panel provided in step 202may also be modified by the attachment of one or more holder straps andholding units, described above in connection with FIG. 4B.

[0136] Step 204 includes attaching a backing layer to the outer panelprovided in step 202, wherein the backing layer has substantially thesame length and width as the outer panel provided in step 202. Inparticular, step 204 includes attaching left, right, upper and loweredges of the backing layer to the left, right, upper and lower edges,respectively, of the outer panel.

[0137] Step 206 involves attaching left, right, upper and lower edges ofa lining layer to the left, right, upper and lower edges, respectively,of the backing layer to form a trilaminate panel section. The lininglayer has substantially the same length and width as the outer panelprovided in step 202, and the lining layer includes a lining exteriorface and a lining interior face, with the lining exterior face disposedagainst the backing layer.

[0138] Step 208 involves providing at least one, or preferably two,interior pocket sections each having at least one interior pocketattached thereto. Step 210 involves attaching the interior pocketsection(s) to the laminate panel section. The interior pocket sectionsare preferably attached to the laminate panel section such that a gapexists on each side of the fold line (X-Y of FIG. 3B) of the laminatepanel section/bag.

[0139] Step 212 involves attaching a trilateral portion to the laminatepanel section such that the trilateral portion is attached at right,upper/lower, and left outer panel edges. The trilateral portion includesa bag closure unit, and first and second joining sections (shown inFIGS. 5A-5C). The seam where the trilateral portion is attached to thelaminate panel section may be “finished” by, for example, the attachmentof bias binding thereto.

[0140] Step 214 is an optional step that involves attaching at least oneopen configuration retaining unit to the panel section. Step 216involves attaching a first and/or a second carrying unit to the laminatepanel section. The first and/or the second carrying unit is preferablyattached to the laminate panel section adjacent to fold line X-Y. Inembodiments wherein both first and second carrying units are attached tothe laminate panel section, the second carrier unit may be substantiallythe same length or may be considerably shorter than the first carrierunit. In a further optional step (not shown) at least one pivotableinterior pocket having a rigid slab housed therein may be attached tothe at least one interior pocket section provided in step 208.

[0141]FIG. 12 summarizes a series of steps involved in a method ofmaking a foldable bag according to another embodiment of the invention.The method of FIG. 12 corresponds generally to the method of FIG. 11.However, in the method shown in FIG. 12, the interior pockets are of therearrangeable type. Substantial deviations from the method of FIG. 11are outlined below.

[0142] Step 302 involves forming a laminate panel section, for example,in a way generally corresponding to steps 202-206 of FIG. 11. Step 304involves attaching male attachment units to the laminate panel sectionby, for example, stitching hook or loop portions of Velcro™ orVelcro™-like material to the lining layer interior face.

[0143] Step 306 involves providing at least one rearrangeable interiorpocket, each having at least one female attachment unit attachedthereto. Such a female attachment unit may include, for example, a loopor hook portion of Velcro™ or Velcro™-like material.

[0144] Step 308 involves attaching the at least one rearrangeableinterior pocket to a designated location on the lining layer interiorface via complementary male and female attachment units. Step 310involves attaching a trilateral portion to the laminate panel section,essentially as described in connection with step 212 of FIG. 11. Step312 involves attaching a first and/or a second carrying unit to thelaminate panel section, essentially as described in connection with step214 of FIG. 11.

[0145] While the foldable bag been described herein primarily withrespect to the transportation, storage and access of office supplies, itis to be understood that certain embodiments of the instant inventionare also applicable to a broad range of other uses and activities. Forexample, the foldable bag of the present invention may be useful forartists, students, photographers, beauticians, athletes, etc.

[0146] The foregoing embodiments are merely exemplary and are not to beconstrued as limiting the present invention. The methods and devices ofthe present invention can be readily applied to other types ofapparatuses. The description of the present invention is intended to beillustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims. Manyalternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A multi-purpose foldable bag, comprising: alaminate panel section foldable about a fold line and beingsubstantially bilaterally symmetrical about the fold line, said laminatepanel section capable of adopting a folded closed configuration, anunfolded flat configuration, and a folded open configuration, saidlaminate panel section in the folded open configuration adapted forbeing supported by a chair back; a plurality of interior pockets, eachof said plurality of interior pockets being readily accessible when saidlaminate panel section adopts the folded open configuration; a pluralityof exterior pockets, each of said plurality of exterior pockets beingreadily accessible when said laminate panel section adopts the foldedclosed configuration; and a bag closure unit for securing said laminatepanel section in the folded closed configuration.
 2. The bag of claim 1,further comprising at least one open configuration retaining unit forretaining said laminate panel section in the folded open configuration.3. The bag of claim 2, wherein said at least one open configurationretaining unit comprises first and second side straps and a side straplock unit.
 4. The bag of claim 1, further comprising at least onepivotable pocket including a rigid slab.
 5. The bag of claim 1, whereinsaid plurality of interior pockets are attached to at least one interiorpocket section, and said at least one interior pocket section isattached to said laminate panel section.
 6. The bag of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one holder band and at least one holding unit, andwherein said laminate panel section includes an outer panel, said atleast one holder band secured to said outer panel.
 7. The bag of claim1, wherein said laminate panel section includes an outer panel, abacking layer, and a lining layer having a lining interior face.
 8. Thebag of claim 7, wherein said plurality of interior pockets arerearrangeable on said lining interior face.
 9. The bag of claim 1,further comprising a carrying strap attached to the laminate panelsection along the fold line.
 10. The bag of claim 9, wherein thecarrying strap is removably attached to the laminate panel section. 11.The bag of claim 1, wherein at least two of the interior pockets arelayered.
 12. The bag of claim 9, wherein a length of the carrying strapis adjustable.
 13. A multi-purpose foldable bag comprising: a flexibleouter panel; a lining layer attached to said outer panel to form alaminate panel section; a bag closure unit; at least one interiorpocket; and at least one open configuration retaining unit; said bagfoldable into a folded closed configuration, an unfolded flatconfiguration, and a folded closed configuration, said bag closure unitfor retaining said bag in the folded closed configuration, said at leastone open configuration retaining unit capable of retaining said bag inthe folded open configuration, and said at least one interior pocketaccessible when said bag in the folded open configuration.
 14. Amulti-purpose foldable bag, comprising: a laminate panel sectionfoldable about a fold line, said laminate panel section including alining interior face; and a pivotable pocket pivotably attached to saidlining interior face, said pivotable interior pocket including a rigidslab.
 15. The bag of claim 14, wherein said pivotable interior pocket ispivotable between an upright orientation and an angled orientation, andsaid pivotable interior pocket may be locked in the angled orientationvia a stay unit.
 16. The bag of claim 15, wherein said stay unitcomprises first and second stays, first and second stay mounting units,and first and second stay receptacle units.
 17. The bag of claim 14,further comprising at least one male attachment unit attached to saidlining interior face, and a plurality of rearrangeable interior pocketseach having at least one female attachment unit for attachment of eachof said plurality of rearrangeable interior pockets to said lininginterior face via said at least one male attachment unit.
 18. Amulti-purpose foldable bag comprising: a flexible laminate panel sectionfoldable about a fold line into a folded closed configuration and afolded open configuration, the folded open configuration of saidlaminate panel section adapted for support on a chair back; a pivotableinterior pocket pivotably attached to said laminate panel section andhaving a rigid slab adapted for use as a work surface; and at least oneopen configuration retaining unit for retaining said bag in the openconfiguration on the chair back.
 19. The bag of claim 18, wherein saidat least one open configuration retaining unit comprises first andsecond side straps and a side strap lock unit.
 20. The bag of claim 18,wherein said pivotable interior pocket is pivotable between an uprightorientation and an angled orientation, and said pivotable interiorpocket may be locked in the angled orientation via a stay unit, saidstay unit comprising first and second stays, first and second staymounting units, and first and second stay receptacle units.
 21. A methodof making a foldable bag, comprising the steps of: a) providing a panelsection; b) attaching at least one rearrangeable interior pocket to thepanel section; and c) attaching a trilateral portion to the panelsection.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least onerearrangeable interior pocket includes a female attachment unit, and thepanel section includes at least one male attachment unit.
 23. The methodof claim 21, wherein the panel section provided in said step a) includesan outer panel and at least one of a backing layer and a lining layerdisposed on the outer panel.
 24. The method of claim 21, wherein the atleast one interior pocket comprises a plurality of rearrangeableinterior pockets.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein at least two ofthe rearrangeable interior pockets are layered.
 26. The method of claim21, further comprising the step of attaching a first carrying unit tothe panel section.
 27. The method of claim 21, further comprising thestep of attaching an exterior pocket to the panel section.
 28. A methodof making a foldable bag, comprising the steps of: a) providing an outerpanel; b) attaching a backing layer to the outer panel provided in saidstep a); c) attaching a lining layer to the backing layer to form atrilaminate panel section; d) providing at least one interior pocketsection, each of the at least one interior pocket sections having atleast one interior pocket; e) attaching each of the at least oneinterior pocket sections to the panel section; f) attaching a trilateralportion to the panel section; and g) attaching at least one openconfiguration retaining unit to the panel section.
 29. The method ofclaim 28, wherein said step d) comprises providing at least one interiorpocket section including at least one pivotable pocket pivotablyattached thereto, the pivotable pocket including a rigid slab.
 30. Amethod of making a foldable bag, comprising the steps of: forming alaminate panel section having a lining layer interior face; attaching atleast one male attachment unit to the lining layer interior face;providing at least one rearrangeable interior pocket, each of the atleast one rearrangeable interior pockets having at least one femaleattachment unit attached thereto; attaching the at least onerearrangeable interior pocket to the lining layer interior face;attaching a trilateral portion to the laminate panel section; andattaching at least one carrying unit to the laminate panel section. 31.The method of claim 30, further comprising the step of attaching atleast one pivotable pocket to the lining layer interior face, the atleast one pivotable pocket including a rigid slab.
 32. The method ofclaim 30, further comprising the step of attaching at least one openconfiguration retaining unit to the laminate panel section.
 33. Amulti-purpose foldable bag, comprising: a panel section foldable about afold line; and at least one interior pocket attached to an interiorsurface of the panel section; wherein the panel section is adapted to besupported in an open folded configuration by a support structure. 34.The bag of claim 33, wherein the panel section is adapted to besupported in an open folded configuration by a chair.
 35. The bag ofclaim 33, wherein at least one interior pocket is removably attached tothe interior surface of the panel section.
 36. The bag of claim 35wherein at least one interior pocket is rearrangeable on the interiorsurface of the panel section.
 37. The bag of claim 35 wherein at leastone pocket is removably attached to the interior surface of the panelsection with hook and loop fasteners.
 38. The bag of claim 33, whereinsaid at least one interior pocket comprises a plurality of interiorpockets, and wherein at least two of the interior pockets are layered.39. The bag of claim 33, wherein the at least one interior pocket isattached so that it is in a substantially upright configuration when thepanel section is supported in the folded open configuration by thesupporting structure.
 40. The bag of claim 33, further comprising atleast one open configuration retaining unit for securing the panelsection in the open folded configuration while the panel section isbeing supported by the supporting structure.
 41. The bag of claim 33,further comprising at least one interior pocket that is pivotallyattached to the interior surface of the panel section.
 42. The bag ofclaim 41, further comprising a rigid material disposed inside thepivotally attached interior pocket.
 43. The bag of claim 33, furthercomprising at least one exterior pocket attached to an exterior side ofthe panel section.
 44. The bag of claim 33, further comprising acarrying strap attached to the panel section along the fold line. 45.The bag of claim 44, wherein the carrying strap is removably attached tothe panel section.
 46. The bag of claim 44, wherein a length of thecarrying strap is adjustable.